Statement on Senseless Killings of Worshipers at the Islamic Center of Quebec

Bosnian Muslim Community in CanadaStatement on Senseless Killings of Worshipers at the Islamic Center of Quebec

The Bosnian Muslim Community in Canada is deeply grieved and shocked at last night’s senseless killings of worshippers at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec in Quebec City.

Innocent Canadians have been murdered in their place of worship and refuge by this terrible act of terror. As we pray for those who have lost their lives, the injured and their loved ones, we ask all fellow Canadians to stand together against Islamophobia and xenophobia in all their forms.

As Quebec government and law enforcement officials take action against those who have committed these hate crimes we call upon the Canadian Muslim community who may experience Islamophobia to report acts of hate and bring them to the attention of the government, the law enforcement and our fellow citizens.

As Canadians from Bosnian Muslim origin (Bosniaks) who have been embraced as refugees in this great country after having escaped aggressive war, persecution, ethnic cleansing and genocide in their homeland more than two decades ago (1992-‘95) we know how much tragedy can be brought because of blind hatred, extreme nationalism and religious fanaticism.

Let us not forget that we are all Canadians and we are all bound by this tragedy together. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the values of Canadian pluralism, living together in peace and prosperity and not allow anyone to divide us through hatred and violence.

This candle was placed by one of our Canadian neighbors at the entrance of the Mosque next day after the Quebec tragedy. This simple gesture speaks volumes of the sympathy and support in our community. Our and prayers go out to the victims and their families.